A series of attacks by a golden eagle in southern Norway has left multiple people injured, including a 31-year-old bicycle courier who was scratched and clawed by the bird. The eagle, the country’s second-largest bird of prey, is believed to have attacked three other individuals in the area over the course of a week. One of the victims was a toddler who required stitches after being clawed by the bird. The attacks have been described as “radically different from normal” by eagle expert Alv Ottar Folkestad, who believes the bird may have had a behavioral disorder prompting the aggression. The eagle responsible for the attacks was eventually killed after attacking the small child.
The recent attacks in southern Norway are believed to have been carried out by a female eagle born this year. According to Folkestad, the unique plumage of the bird and favorable weather conditions in the area may have contributed to the series of attacks. In the most recent incident, a 20-month old girl was playing outside when the eagle suddenly appeared and clawed her. The girl’s father recounted how the mother and a neighbor intervened to protect her, ultimately killing the bird with a piece of wood after it attacked three times. The girl received stitches for her injuries and is reported to be recovering well.
In addition to the toddler, two other individuals have reported being attacked by the golden eagle. One of the victims captured the incident on camera, while another described feeling a crushing weight as the bird swooped down on her. Mariann Myrvang, who was attacked on Wednesday, recounted the terrifying experience of the eagle landing on her shoulders and digging its claws into her flesh. Despite her injuries, she received medical attention and is expected to recover. The attacks have left residents in the area on high alert, with police monitoring the situation and contacting a gamekeeper for assistance.
The 31-year-old bicycle courier who was attacked by the golden eagle, Francis Ari Sture, described the terrifying encounter of being chased down a steep mountain by the bird. Sture attempted to shield himself with his backpack and kick the eagle away, but the bird persisted in attacking him repeatedly. Fearing that he might slip and fall unconscious, Sture continued his descent down the mountainside, ultimately reaching a campsite and contacting his father for help. Despite sustaining injuries, including a deep gouge near his eye, Sture was able to receive medical attention and make his way home.
Despite the frightening ordeal, Sture remains determined to continue hiking, albeit with a heightened sense of caution. He credits his sunglasses and long-sleeved shirt with protecting him from more severe injuries during the attack. Sture’s resilience and determination to continue hiking serve as a testament to his bravery in the face of danger. The series of attacks by the golden eagle in southern Norway have raised awareness about the potential dangers of encounters with wildlife in the region, prompting residents to be vigilant while enjoying the outdoors. With the eagle responsible for the attacks now deceased, authorities are monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of residents in the area.
